What began as a high school hobby for Logan Cohn ’25 has evolved into a significant aspect of his lifestyle. As a dedicated member of the Hampden-Sydney Football team, where he serves as the starting center, Logan’s passion for weightlifting has not only enhanced his athletic performance but also led him to remarkable achievements as he was crowned the U23 (Under 23) National Champion in his weight class during USA Weightlifting Nationals Week in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in June.
“One of my goals was to represent the College and something bigger than myself,” Logan said. “This experience reflects not only my efforts but also the collective dedication of the Hampden-Sydney community to enhance and uphold the College's reputation.”
As a senior in high school, after committing to play football at Hampden-Sydney, Logan set a goal to improve his strength. Weightlifting quickly evolved from hobby to Logan’s second sport, and he began to dream of competing nationally.
Although this was his first national competition, Logan is no stranger to competing. Hailing from the Richmond, Virginia, area, Logan participated in local and state meets, building a solid foundation of experience and skill. His journey through these competitions prepared him for the challenges and excitement of the national stage.
“Heading into meets is truly a rollercoaster of emotions, with highs, lows, and lots of adrenaline,” Logan said. “Maintaining confidence is crucial—just believing in your ability to succeed makes all the difference.”
To qualify for the national competition in the 109+kg (240lbs+) weight class, Logan needed to hit a total of 234kg (515lbs) from snatch and clean and jerk, which he did during his qualifying meet in the winter of 2023. After earning his qualifying bid for the national competition, Logan dedicated the first half of 2024 to intensive training.
“The support I received from the Hampden-Sydney community, my fraternity brothers in Sigma Nu, and alumni was incredible,” Logan said. “All the texts, emails, and calls made me feel truly supported and encouraged. It meant a lot to have that kind of backing.”
Motivated and encouraged, Logan traveled to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, arriving early on Monday, June 17, to support his friends Addison and Matthew from Total Training in Henrico, Virginia, who were also competing on Tuesday and Wednesday. He and his friends trained on Monday and Tuesday in Pittsburgh’s training hall, familiarizing themselves with the arena and meeting new people.
“Upon arrival, the atmosphere was a bit overwhelming,” Logan said. “I had never experienced such a large meet before with thousands of people, and the diverse crowd in the training hall—people of different ages and goals—was intriguing. Despite the excitement, I focused on maintaining my composure, knowing we all shared the common goal of striving for greatness.”
Competing in sessions with 12 lifters at a time, Logan participated in both the snatch and clean and jerk events. Unlike powerlifting, which focuses on squats, benches, and deadlifts, Olympic weightlifting involves these two dynamic lifts. Logan made three attempts in each, achieving a max of 103kg (226lbs) in the snatch and 134kg (295lbs) in the clean and jerk.
Totaling an impressive 237kg (522lbs), Logan emerged as the U23 National Champion for the 109+kg weight class. This victory highlighted his unwavering dedication and commitment to his second sport, demonstrating the results of his hard work and perseverance.
“It was one of the most enjoyable experiences of my life, and the support from the Hampden-Sydney community meant everything to me,” Logan said. “Knowing I had their backing boosted my confidence and helped me feel more at ease. I wanted to make everyone proud.”
“I aim to keep building strength and eventually qualify for the Olympic trials,” Logan continued. “There is no doubt the incredible support from the College community will keep pushing me forward and help me achieve my goals.”
The old saying "hard work pays off" holds true for those who relentlessly pursue greatness. With Logan's ambition of reaching the Olympic trials, he is sure to continue striving for excellence and improving in his passion. Supported by the unwavering Hampden-Sydney community and driven by his own resilience, he will return to Hampden-Sydney as a national champion, proving that anything is possible.